Business of the Month: Dunnet Bay Distillery (Round 2)
Chemical engineering and creative ingenuity combined to make Dunnet Bay Distillery – we spoke with Claire Murray about how the NC500 has helped to shape the business since it’s inception little over 3 years ago…
1) Hi Claire! Last year ago we spoke to Martin, your partner in crime. Can you give us a little bit about your background, and what you do at Rock Rose Gin?
I am the boss and keep Martin in check! Haha really I seem to do a little bit of everything at the distillery but my side of things is much more marketing, events and social media. We decide the new products and look at packaging etc together but ultimately I have the final say! Right now I have had a big focus on our new visitor centre and shop. I’ve been deciding layout, products, how our tours will work – all the logistics!
2) Can you explain just why there are so many craft gins available in the UK now, and in particular Scotland?
Craft gin has become a real ‘thing’ in Scotland over the last few years, it has become really interesting. More and more are emerging since the still size regulations were relaxed – you can now purchase a smaller sized still which is much more affordable. Distillers are choosing to focus on gin as it is a very diverse spirit. Predominantly it has to be juniper but after that you can use a whole host of other botanicals to create something unique and exciting! Many distilleries will also be producing whisky and whilst it is being laid down to mature, they will focus on gin production.
3) What makes a Rock Rose Gin stand out from the others?
In the first instance our beautiful and striking bottle catches many people’s eye. We were the first ceramic bottle on the market and we used the blue print colours to reflect Scotland. Our designers came back with around 80 different concepts and we had them strung up all around our kitchen and we took down and put back up. There were always a core few that never came down and they were all a ceramic bottle.
And once they taste Rock Rose – well there is no going back!!
4) So how have things changed at Rock Rose Gin since we last spoke to Martin?
Well we have since built our extension to the building which has doubled the size! Previously when Martin was distilling the electrics in the building were cut off, as per ATEX regs, which meant that we couldn’t bottle the gin at the same time he was distilling. Now we have the extension, the bottling line has moved through there and Martin can distil until his heart is content as the girls can bottle at the same time. We are also mid build of our new visitor centre and shop. The old steading building beside is being renovated to accomodate the increasing number of visitors to our distillery. At the moment we offer 5 tours per week and we are fully booked most days! Soon we will be able to offer visitors to our wee distillery an improved experience! Works should be completed by the beginning of October, all going well.
5) What is the biggest change you have witnessed since the launch of the NC500?
Our visitor numbers have hugely increased. We have also noticed that we have visitors much earlier on in the season than we have had expected. Now our new visitor area will be much more welcoming to everyone who pops by at any time!
6) How is the NC500 Business Partnership helping your business and the local area?
It is bringing more people to the area which can only be a good thing! Our tours are busy and we work with the hotel next door to try and offer a more joined up experience. We also happily will advise visitors on other acitivities to do in the area.
7) Do you have any tips for other businesses on the route on how to best utilise the NC500?
Work with the NC500 team to provide a fabulous experience for every NC500’er, welcome each and every one to ensure that they return home raving about the wonderful time they had in Scotland! Word of mouth recommendations are invaluable.
8) What do you hope for the future of the North Coast 500?
I hope it continues to be as much of a success as it already is! It will be great to see things improving as we welcome more people to the north coast of Scotland.
9) How much of the beautiful NC500 have you explored – and do you have a favourite spot?
We have frequently travelled the east coast and along the north coast but not so much of the west side. We will do, but just need to take time out from gin-making duties! One of our favourite spots is a little off the beaten track and you have to climb over Dunnet hill to discover the gorgeous Peedie Sanie beach! It’s a wee hidden gem of a beach and great to spend sunny days on 🙂
10) And finally…what is the perfect accompaniment to a Rock Rose Gin?
Well this is controversial!! I always drink mine with a curl or orange and Martin loves his with toasted rosemary. We recommend both to anyone who asks as we want you to enjoy our gin whether you prefer it with orange, rosemary or something totally different! Everyone is different!
